There is one I joined when I married Paul Schuetze that I think is so meaningful.

It is the Schuetze Family Prayer, based on "An Evening Prayer" by Robert Louis Stevenson and recited initially at their Bethesda, Md., home where Paul grew up with his mom, dad and four siblings, now, except for us, scattered all over the East Coast.

The prayer has been used by the family as long as Paul can remember and today is still recited when their family members get together for a meal anywhere in the world.

"It was mom's idea to have it printed up and she gave it as a wedding present," said Paul.

It connects that family.

I thought I would share it with you, dear readers, as we enter a new year, with its shining clean slate and as we hope for peace, grace

and an end to rash acts which fill us with sadness.

This prayer, I think, has a message for all of us:

"Lord, we thank thee for this place in which we dwell

"For the love that unites us

"For the peace accorded us this day

"For the hope with which we expect the morrow.

"For the health, the work, the food and the bright skies which make our lives delightful

"For all our friends in all parts of the earth.

"Give us strength to encounter that which is to come, that we be brave in peril, and in all the changes of fortune, and down to the gates of death, loyal and loving to one another."

Happy New Year! Be safe as you navigate 2013.

Maggie Martin is a Times reporter/columnist. She can be reached by calling 459-3157 or faxing, 459-3301. Email: mmartin@shreveporttimes.com

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Out & About: A family tradition continues

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